Celebrating the Revitalization of Tacoma Urban League

The National Urban League was founded in 1910 to respond to the social and economic changes brought by the Great Migration of Black people from the rural South to northern cities. The Tacoma Urban League was founded in 1968, and in 1976, the chapter dedicated a new building, becoming the first affiliate in the nation to build and own its own facility. Now, nearly 50 years later, Desireé Wilkins Finch is stepping onto the shoulders of Thomas Dixon, the founder of Tacoma Urban League (Tacoma, WA), and the CEOs who came after him to build upon an energy of empowerment and possibility. The Tacoma Urban League has long been a beacon for the community, serving families and transforming lives. On Friday, September 19, the organization will celebrate the grand opening of its newly remodeled space, continuing a history of legacy and liberation through financial empowerment that has defined its work for decades. 

With a mission to foster the empowerment of African Americans and fellow community members in the region by ensuring economic independence, social justice, and civil rights protection, the Tacoma Urban League’s programs focus on the foundations of a thriving community, including education, economic empowerment, health, housing, and justice.

“The idea of ownership and financial empowerment for our community is important, and that’s part of my legacy and work is getting us back to that position of ownership and economic empowerment not just for the League but for our community,” says Desireé Wilkins Finch, the Urban League’s new President and CEO. “My focus is on ensuring that I create sustainability, longevity and integrity, so that the League can continue to be here to serve the community.” 

The renovated space enables the Tacoma Urban League to serve more people efficiently.   

“We celebrate community through having an updated space,” says Wilkins Finch. “We want the community to walk through these doors and feel proud that they’re a member of the Urban League and a part of the legacy or the future of this organization. 

The community is uplifted through classes, workshops and programs that foster the empowerment of African Americans in the South Sound. “The brightness of this new space allows us to serve our community by creating an environment of joy and hope,” says Wilkins Finch. “It’s about giving people a place of belonging where they can heal, learn, grow, and build the skills they need to thrive.” 

Among the programs TUL is excited to host is Healthy Minds, a behavioral and mental health initiative. The Tacoma Urban League believes that mental health programs are essential to addressing the effects of systemic oppression, enabling individuals to focus on building financial stability and living the life they envision. Another initiative is the Business Masterclass, modeled after the masterclasses in the fine arts of Chicago, where Desireé grew up as a flautist. Local business owners can sign up for free one-on-one coaching from experienced experts in a classroom setting, giving many people the opportunity to learn in real time and apply what they learn immediately. 

TUL’s impact extends beyond adults to serve entire families. Through the Kinship Initiative, in partnership with Lonetta Cunningham TeamWRK, a local youth development organization, TUL will host after-school care on Monday through Wednesday from 3 to 6 p.m. On Fridays, children can participate in The Cookie Clubhouse with Shatara Mason, providing a fun, creative, and educational environment for young people. 

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